FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 29, 2026
Media Contact:
Alice Carruth
(575) 639-1113
alice@higherorbits.org
Higher Orbits Brings Go For Launch! STEM Experience to Flint, Michigan
Higher Orbits’ two-day engaging event grants students hands-on access to real-world STEM challenges, space professionals, and astronauts.
Huntsville, Alabama – Higher Orbits, a 501(c)(3) nonprofi t organization with a mission of promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) will be bringing its acclaimed Go For Launch! program to Flint Michigan. This two-day event will be held on July 23-24, 2026, and will offer space enthusiasts in grades 8-12 a unique chance to work side by side with astronauts while exploring the world of space.
This program will be hosted at the Mott Community College-Regional Technology Center from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. All participants are required to attend both days of the event.
“Higher Orbits is delighted to bring the Go For Launch! experience to Flint,” said Michelle Lucas, Founder and CEO of Higher Orbits. “By learning directly from industry professionals, students develop communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that help prepare them for success in any career path.”
Participants will also get the chance to learn directly from retired NASA astronaut Tony Antonelli, who has logged over 579 hours during two spaceflight missions. Antonelli’s first space flight was on the STS-119, where the objective was to deliver and install the S6 Truss segment. His second space flight was on STS-132 in 2010, during which the objective was to deliver a Russian-built Mini Research Module and an Integrated Cargo Carrier.
Photo: Tony Antonelli, retired astronaut
During the two-day event, students will:
- Design a real scientific experiment with the potential to fly to space
- Participate in teamwork and leadership activities
- Learn directly from astronauts and STEM professionals
- Explore careers in aerospace, engineering, and science
- Compete in a Shark Tank-style presentation challenge
Go For Launch! is a multiday program that encourages students to engage in immersive, project-based activities that bring space to life. With a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), Higher Orbits is dedicated to providing opportunities for students nationwide.
Registration is open to students in grades 8-12, including rising 8th graders and recently graduated seniors. Students must attend the full day on both days of the event.
More information about this event and Higher Orbits programs can be found at the Higher Orbits Registration Page: https://higherorbits.org/events/go-for-launch-flint/
Higher Orbits would like to thank our sponsor, NDIA Michigan Chapter, for their support of this event. We’d also like to thank our supporters, including AB Emblems, Uniphi Space Agency, Space Tango, Space Shirts, and AIAA.
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ABOUT GO FOR LAUNCH!
Go For Launch! is an immersive STEM and leadership program created by Higher Orbits that connects students with astronauts, scientists, engineers, and space industry professionals. Through hands-on activities and team-based challenges, students gain exposure to space exploration while building communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
ABOUT HIGHER ORBITS
Higher Orbits is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that uses space to inspire students to pursue STEM fields while building teamwork, leadership, and communication skills. Through immersive, hands-on programs including Go For Launch! and other educational initiatives, Higher Orbits has engaged thousands of students across the country, empowering them to succeed in school, careers, and life.
Learn more at HigherOrbits.org
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